Dating with a mental illness is something that’s not often talked about. However, that doesn’t mean it isn’t an important topic. If you’ve been diagnosed with a mental health disorder, you may wonder how it could impact your romantic life in the future. Let’s dive into this issue and discuss some important things to know when dating with a mental illness.
Dating and Mental Illness
It is absolutely possible to have a healthy relationship even if you’ve been diagnosed with a mental illness. Many people with mental health diagnoses are in functioning relationships. Don’t let your mental health status stop you from considering dating. You are not a lesser or worse person just because you struggle with your mental health. Dating is open to anyone willing to put in the hard work of staying healthy and maintaining a functional relationship.
Disclosure
When it comes to dating with a mental illness, disclosure is one of the most common things people wonder about. There isn’t one right way to go about sharing details of your mental illness. You may prefer to get it out in the open on the first date. Perhaps you want to wait until later on to share this detail about yourself.
While it is important to be honest and transparent, it’s okay to wait until you trust the other person with sensitive information. Discuss your mental health with your romantic partner as soon as you feel comfortable and safe to do so.
Support
Dating provides an opportunity to expand your support network. You might look for a partner who will be able to support you and be there during rough mental health periods. Being transparent and sharing with your partner means you can keep them updated and have someone to reach out to.
Another great way to get support is through couples therapy. Working with a therapist can give both you and your significant other a space to vent, share, and grow together.
Patience When Dating
When you have a mental illness, dating can be frustrating. Your partner has not had the same experiences as you. It can be challenging to communicate with someone who doesn’t understand what you’re going through. Be patient, be willing to explain and forgive, and give your significant other time to adjust.
If you’ve been recently diagnosed with a mental illness, you may have some questions. At Avalon Malibu, we specialize in helping people to effectively navigate the world despite mental health diagnoses. We’d love to talk with you and share some information about the services we provide. If you’re ready to speak with one of our professionals, feel free to give us a call at (844) 857-5992. Whether you’re interested in dating with a mental illness, treatment options, or beginning therapy, we can help.
